A Japanese ceramic ornament (okimono, 置物) featuring a white snake gracefully curled around a golden sphere, crafted by Shōhō (昭峰), a Japanese maker known for traditional zodiac ornaments and auspicious ceramic figurines.
This delightful piece features a rounded white body with a beautifully sculpted snake forming an elegant loop above a golden sphere. The sphere is decorated with the red kanji 福 (fuku), meaning "good fortune" or "blessing."
Shōhō (昭峰) is associated with Japanese decorative ceramic figurines, particularly zodiac animals and auspicious ornaments. Shōhō's creations are often produced in connection with established ceramic studios such as Yakushi-gama (薬師窯), reflecting the enduring traditions of Japanese pottery craftsmanship. These decorative pieces are widely appreciated as seasonal ornaments, New Year gifts, and lucky charms, combining traditional symbolism with charming, colourful designs.
In Japanese culture, the snake (hebi, 巳) is one of the twelve animals of the Japanese zodiac (eto, 干支). It symbolises wisdom, transformation, renewal, and prosperity. Because snakes periodically shed their skin, they are traditionally associated with rebirth and new beginnings. White snakes (shirohebi, 白蛇) are considered especially auspicious and are closely connected with Benzaiten, the Japanese deity associated with wealth, knowledge, and the arts.
Size: 10 x 5 x 9cm
